Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Day Tour with Small Boat Ride

The Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Day Tour with Small Boat Ride offers an engaging 9-hour experience for those eager to discover some of the most picturesque sights in the Netherlands. For $159.88 per person, this tour combines visits to Zaanse Schans—famous for its historic windmills and traditional crafts—and the tranquil village of Giethoorn, known as the “Venice of the Netherlands.” With round-trip transportation from central Amsterdam, it provides a hassle-free way to explore away from the city’s hustle, making it ideal for travelers who want a rundown in one day.

The tour’s highlights include exploring windmills and green wooden houses at Zaanse Schans, observing cheese and wooden shoe demonstrations, and cruising through Giethoorn’s peaceful canals on a small electric boat. It’s rated 4.5 out of 5, with 90% of reviewers recommending the experience. Notably, the tour is designed for small groups—up to 16 travelers—which helps ensure a more personal and relaxed atmosphere, especially during the boat rides and factory visits.

Key Points

• Includes round-trip transportation from central Amsterdam for convenience.
• Visits Zaanse Schans with its historic windmills, traditional clog and cheese factories.
• Explores Giethoorn, the “Venice of the Netherlands,” with a small electric boat cruise.
• Offers guided demonstrations of cheese-making, clog-making, and diamond cutting.
• The small group size enhances interaction and comfort.
• Duration of 9 hours makes it a full-day outing, with ample time at each stop.

Starting Point and Overall Tour Structure

The tour begins at the DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station at 9:30 am. From there, travelers are transported by tour coach or van, heading first to Zaanse Schans. After approximately 1.5 hours, the group explores traditional windmills, wooden houses, and factories.

The day continues with a cheese-making demonstration and time for shopping at local shops. Then, the group drives past Lake IJsselmeer and the iconic Ketelbrug bridge, with commentary on the largest artificial lake and dike in the Netherlands. The journey ends in Giethoorn, the famous water village, where a 1-hour electric boat cruise offers a peaceful glide through its over 150 arch-shaped wooden bridges.

Discovering Zaanse Schans’s Windmills and Historic Houses

Zaanse Schans is a key highlight, with its collection of restored windmills and green wooden houses dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The windmills are still functional, and the area exudes an authentic Dutch countryside vibe. The photo stop at the Zaan River offers a prime view of these iconic structures.

Visitors get guided demonstrations at a cheese farm and wooden shoe workshop, where clogs are made using traditional techniques. You can also try fitting wooden shoes to get a sense of Dutch craftsmanship firsthand. These stops combine historical insights with interactive experiences, making the visit both educational and fun.

The Cheese, Clogs, and Diamond Factories

Both cheese and clog factories are included as part of the tour, providing a glimpse into traditional Dutch industries. At the Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm, a professional demonstration showcases cheese-making in traditional Dutch attire, followed by an opportunity to sample a variety of cheeses and Dutch treats.

The diamond factory visit adds a touch of craftsmanship, with guided insights into diamond cutting, complementing the artisanal theme of the day. These experiences are brief but informative, adding cultural depth to the tour.

Scenic Drive Past the Enclosing Dike and Lake IJsselmeer

On the way to Giethoorn, the guide shares stories about the largest artificial lake in the Netherlands, Lake IJsselmeer, and the Enclosing Dike—part of the Delta Works. The Ketelbrug, a bridge and dike measuring 800 meters in length, is also passed, emphasizing the Netherlands’ mastery of water management.

This drive offers a moment to appreciate the country’s engineering feats and landscapes, setting the stage for the unique village of Giethoorn.

Exploring Giethoorn’s Waterways on a Small Electric Boat

Giethoorn is celebrated for its serene canals and arch-shaped wooden bridges—more than 150 in total. The small electric boat cruise is led by a friendly guide, who also lets travelers try their hand at driving the boat, adding a fun, hands-on element.

This guided boat ride provides a tranquil view of traditional thatch-roof cottages and the quiet lifestyle of the village. The small size of the boat (max 9 people) offers an intimate experience, avoiding the busy crowd typical of larger tourist boats.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour departs from DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station at 9:30 am and concludes at the same meeting point. A mobile ticket is provided, making check-in straightforward. The small group size—limited to 16 travelers—ensures a more personalized experience, especially during factory visits and boat rides.

While lunch is not included, the tour offers time for shopping at the factories and free cheese tastings. Travelers are advised to be punctual to maximize the experience, especially for the boat trip. The tour is not recommended for travelers with reduced mobility due to the nature of the stops and boat.

How This Tour Stands Out from Other Excursions

What makes this full-day tour special is its focus on authentic Dutch experiences in small groups. The guided demonstrations at cheese, clog, and diamond factories add cultural value beyond just sightseeing.

The small electric boat in Giethoorn is a standout feature, allowing travelers to navigate like locals rather than just sit in a large, touristy vessel. Plus, the round-trip transfer from central Amsterdam removes logistical worries, making it a seamless way to see iconic attractions in one day.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour suits those interested in traditional Dutch crafts and scenic villages, especially if they appreciate personalized guided experiences and small group settings. It’s ideal for history buffs, culture lovers, and waterway enthusiasts.

Travelers who value local craftsmanship—cheese, wooden shoes, and diamond cutting—find this trip particularly rewarding. However, those seeking a very relaxed, less crowded experience should note the potential for crowds at Zaanse Schans.

Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Day Tour: A Practical Choice

In summary, this 9-hour guided tour offers a rich taste of the Netherlands outside of Amsterdam’s city center. The combination of windmills, traditional crafts, and peaceful canals creates a memorable day that balances educational demonstrations with scenic cruising.

While lunch isn’t included, the opportunity to sample Dutch cheese and try on wooden shoes adds a flavorful, interactive element. The small boat ride in Giethoorn is a particular highlight, providing a personalized view of one of Holland’s most charming villages.

This tour is well-suited for visitors wanting a comprehensive, authentic Dutch experience in just one day, especially those who appreciate guided insights and small group intimacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transfer from central Amsterdam to both Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn is included, using a tour coach or van.

How long is the boat ride in Giethoorn?
The electric boat cruise lasts about 1 hour and offers the chance to drive the boat yourself under guidance.

Are factory visits guided?
Yes, the cheese, wooden shoe, and diamond factory demonstrations are led by guides who explain the manufacturing process and Dutch traditions.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable clothing, camera, and perhaps some cash for souvenirs and optional purchases at the factories. No lunch is provided, so consider bringing snacks if desired.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome if accompanied by adults. However, it is not recommended for travelers with reduced mobility due to walking and boat activities.

How many people are in each group?
The tour operates with a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour runs almost year-round, with a small group experience in all seasons. Spring might be especially beautiful with blooming flowers, but the tour offers consistent experiences throughout the year.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there are opportunities for shopping and tasting at the factory stops.

What makes this tour different from other day trips?
The small group size, guided demonstrations, and personalized boat experience in Giethoorn set it apart from larger, more generic excursions.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely. It provides a well-rounded look at Dutch culture, combining history, craftsmanship, and scenic waterways. Perfect for those wanting an authentic, intimate experience outside Amsterdam.